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General Questions

Best Bike Split is a app for cyclists and triathletes who race and train with power meters. The underlying technology that drives Best Bike Split lets you predict race times, plan optimal race strategy and actually execute the perfect race plan on the big day. When we started development we had a few use cases in mind but since launching people have used the app in ways we had never initially imagined. Below are just a few use cases compiled from our members and pros.

Predict future race times

Plan optimal power targets for future races based on a goal Normalized Power (NP)

Determine the Power needed to hit a specific time on a course

Plan optimal race power targets based on a specific Training Stress Score (TSS)

Intro to Best Bike Split

While Best Bike Split does rely on power to give an accurate model and pacing plan, it is possible to use estimated speed in lieu of power for race day execution via our Speed Based Course Cheat Sheet provided that you have done the following.

Have a good understanding of what your accurate FTP (Functional Threshold Power) is based on an indoor smart trainer or from using a power meter in training (Powertap wheel).

Rerun the model with the most up-to-date weather forecast update.

Be flexible to know when a certain speed may be pushing your HR or level of effort too high. In these cases you can shift your target speeds down a bit and keep the same speed deltas between conditions.

No problem. On the login page just click the link under the login button that says, "Forgot your password?", then you can type in your email address and we'll send you information on resetting your password.

It may take several minutes for the email to be sent. If you have not received your "Activation Email" after several minutes, login to BBS (you'll get a message that you have not activated your account yet) and click the link to resend your activation email. If that doesn't work, please submit a request and we'll make sure that your email address is correct.

If you currently have a premium TrainingPeaks membership (coach or athlete) you are eligible for special pricing on premium Best Bike Split subscriptions. To check eligibility, please login to Best Bike Split then go to "Connect TrainingPeaks" under "My Account". Note that special pricing is only good for new premium accounts.

Since we use your email address as a unique user login and email addresses must be verified, please contact us with your current email address and your new email address. We will verify it by sending you an email to reply to and then update our records with your new verified email address.

Our premium features will help you plan and train for specific races, execute your optimal race day pacing plan and provide knowledge to help with race specific equipment selection as well as future purchasing decisions.

Race Analytics Tool

The Race Analytics Tool lets athletes and coaches upload ride files and analyze estimated aerodynamic drag factors after a race or training ride. This tool can help fine tune CdA (coefficient of drag x area) settings for athletes' bike setups within BBS, as well as to test different positions/equipment with field tests. It also allows you to look deeper into your data by verifying power meter data, extracting yaw angles, displaying weather data and more all from your uploaded files.

Goal Time Model

Many athletes want to know what it will take to hit a certain time on a course. Our new goal time model will detail the specific power that is needed to achieve a goal time. Knowing this goal power can be extremely valuable when targeting training for a specific race.

Training Stress Score Model

Triathletes especially those racing long distance often want to target a specific TSS figure on the course where they know they can have a good run off the bike. This model will pinpoint the right power level and pacing to ensure that a TSS target is met regardless of the course or conditions. TSS is a combination of %FTP and time on the course, so every race requires a different strategy. This will be invaluable tool for triathletes planning the perfect race!

Advanced Weather Feature

This feature creates a forecasted or historical weather map for multiple points along the course based on both location and time. With advanced weather athletes and coaches can really start to factor changing weather conditions into race day planning.

Yaw Angle Distribution

The amount of time spent at certain yaw angles during a race can have an impact on what type of equipment an athlete should use on race day. It may also help an athlete decide what type of wheels or frame they should buy. By running several scenarios on typical conditions for their major races an athlete may see that the $10,000 dollar bike they were going to buy might be the wrong choice.

Wahoo ELEMNT Integration

Achieve your goals following your personal race plan during the race with Best Bike Split Power and Speed Targets on the Wahoo ELEMNT. Race targets update throughout the race corresponding to your rider/bike settings, the specific course and weather conditions from your Best Bike Split race plan. Don't leave your race plan at home on race day! Put your race plan front and center on race day.

ELEMNT/KICKR Race Simulations

When you pair a a Wahoo ELEMNT with Best Bike Split integration to your KICKR you can pre-train any Race plan with the most accurate simulation available. Unlike most programs that purely simulate a course's elevation change, the BBS simulation factors in elevation change, wind effects, expected rolling resistance, rider/bike weight and rider specific aerodynamic drag that changes based on the wind and course conditions.

ERG / MRC Downloads

ERG and MRC file downloads allow athletes to mimic a race effort as accurately as possible in training. Using TrainerRoad, CompuTrainer Software, PerfPRO or multiple other training platforms a user can download a course and know that the power output prescribed is going to match the intensity expected during a race for their specific equipment as well as the wind and road conditions.

Garmin Power Courses

This is one of our favorite features and is something we will continue to develop and enhance. This file can be loaded into a Garmin Edge or 910xt/920xt and makes use of what we call "Power Based Navigation". The file acts like a standard Garmin Course file, but instead of turn-by-turn directions it gives Power instructions as you hit certain points on the course. This really makes Best Bike Split the ultimate tool for training, planning and race-day execution.

TCX Activity File

A very powerful feature available in Best Bike Split is the ability to download an activity file that corresponds to a race plan. This file can be uploaded into any analysis tool such as Strava, Garmin Connect, Golden Cheetah, etc to see how the plan compared to an actual race. This can help athletes fine tune the model and analyze where they may be able to race smarter and more efficiently.

Race Plan Comparison Tool

The Race Plan Comparison Tool allows you to compare details of up to three race plans side by side as well as overlaying the power plans and yaw distributions charts for each. This tool is a very easy way to compare the effects of variables such as bike types, components, wheel selection, weather conditions and power output on the overall race times.

Power and Speed Cheat Sheets

Cheat sheets give you approximate watts and speed for each type of course scenario you might encounter during your race. Print your cheat sheet and tape it to your top tube for a quick fool proof pacing reference on race day.

Premium Features Overview

Sure, you can turn off auto renewal of your Premium or Coach Membership at anytime. If you do decide to cancel you will continue to have access to your Premium or Coach Membership until the end of that subscription period. In other words, for a monthly membership until the end of the current 30 day period that you cancel in and for an annual membership until the end of the current 365 day period that you cancel in. Please note that you will not be refunded for days remaining in your subscription period.

To turn off auto renewal of your Premium or Coach Membership, just login to your account on BBS then click on "My Account" (top right of any page) and you will see the "Update Auto Renewal" link, click the link and then select the "Turn Auto Renewal Off" option. You will continue to have access to your Premium or Coach Membership until the end of your subscription period.

Athlete, Bike & Race Setup

The first time you sign on to your account the app should walk you through the basic setup, but it is pretty straightforward and you should be up and running (rolling) in less than 5 minutes.

To create a race plan you will need to first create an athlete profile, a bike profile and either select an existing course or upload a course. Once you have these 3 items completed just click the "Add A Race" under "My Races" and fill in the race data such as course, bike, weather conditions, goal watts and power limits. If you need more information about most of these settings remember you can rollover the icon for additional information.

Create your Athlete Profile.

We will roughly estimate your FTP and Max HR based on your age and weight, but you should manually input your FTP if it's known.

Note that your weight should include your cycling kit, helmet and shoes.

It's important to have an accurate FTP value (see below for more info on FTP).

Create a Bike Profile.

This will estimate initial drag values for you based on your riding style, alternately you may use your measurements or input a known CdA value.

Bike drag values can be adjusted after running a model and comparing to a previous race.

Upload a Course or Add one from our Existing Courses.

Course uploads are currently limited to .GPX and .FIT (activity) files which you can export from Garmin Connect, RideWithGPS.com, Strava, etc. FIT files can be pulled directly off of your Garmin Device. Note that courses can also be created manually on sites such as RideWithGPS.com and then the resulting GPX file can be exported for use with Best Bike Split.

Create a Race Plan.

Many members use their first race plan to compare to a previous race to calibrate bike drag settings.

Try file downloads to test out training indoors, comparing plan data to actual results or executing the race plan with power prompts using a Garmin Edge Computer or Wahoo ELEMNT.

Take a look at the cheat sheet for handy scenario based power targets.

Creating Your First Race Plan

Drag is the largest limiting factor when it comes to moving your bike forward. It is also one of the hardest factors to measure. We provide some general drag estimates based on the drop down racing and climbing position selections on your bike profile, but in an effort to help further refine an accurate drag estimate we have created an advanced Fit-Based drag calculator.

This calculator takes specific measurements about your body and position on the bike to help refine your drag profile. You can always override your final drag profile with your own calculated data from velodrome or wind tunnel test data, but the fit based calculator should give more accurate results than our standard drop downs without the costs associated with aero testing.

The following guide will help you through your measurements:

Shoulder Width

Width in centimeters from the edges of your shoulders while in your racing position.

Hip Width

Width in centimeters at the widest portion of your hips while standing.

Seat Tube Angle

With the Time Analysis Tool it is very easy to fine tune your CdA (Drag Coefficient) using a past race or a training ride. Keep in mind that you will want to use a past race or ride in which you were on the same setup as will be used in your upcoming race and you will need to know what your average power and total bike split time was for the past race/ride.

The basic idea is to take a known course, time and average power then calculate the CdA (drag) needed to balance this equation. Here are the steps to calibrating/verifying your CdA:

First you should review your Athlete Profile and your Bike Profile to ensure that they are set to match what was used on your recent race or training ride.

Select or upload a course that you have already completed such as a recent race or a training ride.

Set up a Race Plan using your recent race or training ride course, set the historical weather conditions for the race (for best results use the Advanced Weather (Premium Feature), then select the Normalized Power model and create your race plan.

On the Race Detail page select the Time Analysis (Premium Feature) tab and adjust the power slider so that it matches your actual average power from the race/ride, then adjust the drag slider until the Adjusted Time matches your actual finish time from the race/ride.

Note the Adjusted 0° Yaw CdAs shown below the Time Analysis chart.

Update your Bike Profile under CdA Racing and Climbing by putting the noted CdA values from the Time Analysis Tool in the CdA field for your 0 Degree Yaw Angles. The system will automatically adjust the other yaw angles based on this initial change.

To verify the adjustment to CdA, rerun the model by updating the Race Plan and check that your actual time is close to the model's predicted time. There may be a small time difference based on average power versus normalized power. You can use the Time Analysis Tool's power slider to set your average power to that of your actual average power from race day. If your CdA is correct, your Adjusted Time on the Time Analysis Tool should match up pretty close to your actual race day time without having to adjust any other sliders on the tool.

Your drag should now be calibrated and you can setup and run much more accurate power plans for future races.

Calibrating Drag With The Time Analysis Tool

This is the position that you spend the majority of a race in. Short distance triathletes and time-trialist may have an aggressive position, but most long distance athletes will be more relaxed. Here are the available race position options.

Tops

This position is mostly upright. Imagine riding your Tri or Road Bike for an easy spin.

Hoods/Bullhorns

Use this setting if you have a slight bend at your torso and your arms are roughly shoulder width apart.

Drops

This setting is reserved mostly for those racing on road bikes in short time trials where an athlete will stay in the drops. It is possible for the drag to be better in the drops than on a triathlon or time trial bike depending on the athlete.

Aerobars (Recreational Triathlete)

This setting is for those who have very little flexibility and use the aerobar more for long distance support. On a Tri Bike if your bars are at or a bit above your seat this may be a good setting for you. Consequently you could also measure your Torso Angle and if it falls in a 45+ degrees range this would be a setting to start with.

Aerobars (Midpack Triathlete)

If you are not very flexible and have a fairly upright position this is a good starting setting. If you are using clip on bars you may want to start with this setting as well.

Aerobars (Advanced Triathlete)

This would be the standard setting for the majority of triathletes and time trialists. It represents a good aero position that you would achieve if you are fairly flexible and have a proper bike fit.

Aerobars (Elite/Pro Time Trial)

Time trial specialists and small or very flexible triathletes will fit under this category. It may be very difficult to hold this position for more than a 40k race although some triathletes can hold a very tight position for races up to a half distance.

Uploading & Selecting Courses

Currently we only support .GPX and .FIT (activity) file types for course uploads. Course or route data can be used directly from your device as .FIT (activity) files or it can be downloaded as .GPX/.FIT files from multiple applications such as TrainingPeaks, Garmin Connect, RideWithGPS, Strava, etc. Note that courses can also be created manually on sites such as RideWithGPS.com and then the resulting GPX file can be exported for use with Best Bike Split.

You can manually create your course using RideWithGPS.com and then export the course's GPX file for use with Best Bike Split.

RideWithGPS.com has a very good help section on Creating Routes (Planning), but keep in mind that you will need a detailed map and/or turn by turn directions in order to draw an accurate course out.

Before Manually Creating A Course

Do a thorough search for the course in our system. Search the "Event/Course Name" field using a single key word for more results. For example a search using "Iron" will include results with "Iron", "Ironman", "Half-Iron", etc.

Check your event's website as they may already have a GPX file for download.

To crop a course simply upload a GPX or FIT file like the normal upload process. Once uploaded use the elevation chart to highlight the section of the course you want to include. This will highlight the section of the course in Green on the map and move the Start and Stop icons. Save the course as normal and the cropped course will be added to your Courses page. To undo a Crop just click inside the highlighted section of the elevation chart.

Cropping A Course

After performing analysis on an entire race course you may want to isolate certain sections or segments of a course to model individually. To do this go to the specific course page used for your model, download the GPX file, then upload that file (using the course upload button) and crop the course to the desired section. You can then duplicate your model changing out the original course for the new course section. For higher fidelity you will want to turn on the Rolling Start option in your advanced settings.

This is useful for analyzing sections of a race where you may want to test certain tactics or for training for specific sections of a course using one of our downloadable files.

To download the raw course data which includes latitude, longitude and elevation data go to My Courses, , click on the view (magnifier) icon for the course you want to download under, then click the Download GPX file button. This file is a standard course format used by most mapping and indoor trainer companies.

Note if you are using this data for training indoors it will not include any of your specific race plan power, weight or aerodynamic details. For training specifically for a course we suggest using our Erg, TrainerRoad or Zwift power files found on your specific race plan details page.

Achieving the best results from Best Bike Split is dependent on having a quality .GPX or .FIT file with accurate elevation data for our math and physics model. Below is a guide to help you select the best .GPX or .FIT data to upload to the system.

Most Accurate Data Collection Devices

Garmin 1000

Garmin 810

Garmin 800

Garmin 510

GPS devices with barometric altimeter correction*

Some Android Phones

Galaxy S3/4 have altimeter

Strava app does not use the altimeter for Android

*The Garmin 500, 910xt and 920xt can often collect accurate data, but have been shown to be prone to temperature drift and occasional drop outs.

Typically Poor Data Collection Devices

GPS Watches/ Bike Computers with no altimeter

Phone Apps

Recommended .GPX and .FIT Data Sources

TrainingPeaks (FIT - from previously uploaded FIT files)

Garmin Connect Activities (GPX/FIT - FIT is preferred)

Check upload device for each activity

Strava Activities (GPX - your own rides)

Strava Activities (GPX -premium downloads)

Check upload device

Avoid activities made with iPhone/Android App

RideWithGPS (GPX)

Courses can be created manually on RideWithGPS.com and then the resulting GPX file can be exported for use with Best Bike Split

Does not show the device used for upload

Check elevation data before upload

Least Recommended Data Sources

You can now create courses using a previous ride's .FIT activity file from a Garmin Device or other device that records .FIT activity files. You can also download a previous ride's .FIT activity file from TrainingPeaks or Garmin Connect.

Garmin Device

Plug device into your computer via USB

Navigate to Garmin->Activities (or History for some devices) Folder

Select (or Drag) the Activity File associated with the course you want to upload using the BBS Upload Course page

TrainingPeaks

Note this only works if the originally uploaded file was a .FIT activity file.

Log in to TrainingPeaks

Click on the workout you want to convert to a course in BBS

In the small window click the File button

Click on the file to download from the the section called Uploaded Files (file will download to your computer)

Race Plan Details

Race Plan Details Overview

Race Plan Details Demo

Demo a premium race plan to see how the premium features of Best Bike Split can help dial in your equipment, experiment with different variables and use advanced weather reports to help you achieve your race day goals.

Power Plan Chart

This chart shows you the optimal power pacing strategy for your race based on your specific goal inputs. It also shows your estimated speed for each section of the course. As you hover over the graph you will see the marker on the map move to the section of the course that corresponds to that power target as well as an indicator of the wind relative to the rider for that location on the course. This chart will help you plan out your race strategy and think through where you will need to push and where you can hold a bit back. To remove a data set simply click that data's label shown under the graph. Toggle between distance and time by clicking either option above the graph data.

Power Plan Chart Zoom

When you zoom in on a section of the Power Plan Chart all of the summary metrics will update to reflect that specific section of the course. This allows athletes and coaches to do a deeper analysis of the race plan on areas such as major climbs, windy sections and/or out and back sections. To zoom simply click and drag across the Power Plan Time or Distance Chart. When you reset zoom, change chart type or switch tabs the Race Summary data will revert back to the total overview.

Time Analysis Tool

The Time Analysis tool allows you to view the estimated time difference for changes in Power, Drag, Weight and/or Rolling Resistance for the race at both the individual segment level as well as the total cumulative time difference. Here are just a few things you could do with the Time Analysis feature.

When you zoom in on a section of the Time Analysis Tool Chart all of the summary metrics will update to reflect that specific section of the course. You may also adjust the Power, Drag, Weight and/or Rolling Resistance sliders to see the effect on your zoomed area. This allows athletes and coaches to do a deeper analysis of the race plan on areas such as major climbs, windy sections and/or out and back sections. To zoom simply click and drag across the Time Analysis Tool Chart. When you reset zoom or switch tabs the Race Summary data will revert back to the total overview.

Time Analysis Tool Overview

Advanced Weather Chart

The Advanced Weather chart shows a forecasted or historical weather map for the course based on both location and time. The chart shows 12 sets of forecasted/historical weather data from points along the course corresponding to the time that the athlete will be crossing into those zones. This data is pulled in from the closest weather station to the zone that the athlete is estimated to be in at that time.

Temperature

Temperature is shown in either degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit depending on your unit settings.

Humidity

Relative humidity is the ratio of the current absolute humidity to the highest possible absolute humidity (which depends on the current air temperature). A reading of 100 percent relative humidity means that the air is totally saturated with water vapor.

Pressure

Barometric pressure (also known as atmospheric pressure) is the force exerted by the atmosphere at a given point. It is known as the "weight of the air". Measurement of barometric pressure is in bars, with normal pressure at sea level being 1.013 bars.

Wind Speed & Direction

Wind speed is shown in either miles per hour or kilometers per hour depending on your unit settings. The wind direction is shown in degrees and represents the direction that the wind is coming from, with true north at 0° and progressing clockwise. The graphic arrows point in the direction that the wind is going and are positioned relative to the course map, with north being at the top of the map.

Yaw Angle Distribution Chart

This chart shows you the percentage of race time you will spend in each yaw angle range based on your goal targets and weather data inputs. The yaw angle data can be used to help with race day equipment selection or can be used to support purchasing decisions. Many bikes and wheels are now designed to be faster at certain yaw angles so knowing the yaw angles you tend to experience most often in your races can help guide your major purchase decisions. To remove a data set on the chart simply click that data's label shown under the graph.

Larger yaw angles indicate crosswinds while smaller angles will be more direct head or tail winds. The general rule of thumb is to go as deep as you can from 0-12.5 degrees yaw. Above 12.5 degrees it is very athlete dependent based on the athletes ability to stay steady and in position in the crosswinds. On courses with more hills this changes a bit based on weight and speed.

Gradient Chart

This chart shows you the percentage of race time you will spend in each road gradient range based on your goal targets and the terrain on the course. The gradient data can be used to help an athlete understand the nature of the course elevation. It can also be used to help highlight the type of climbs that would be beneficial to simulate in training.

Peak Power Chart

The Peak Power Chart shows the mean max average power values across different times for the race model. When compared to an athletes actual peak power or power duration curve this data can be used to help set any power limitations in the advanced settings section or to find areas where an athlete may need work to achieve an optimal pacing strategy for a given course. This becomes especially useful in Time Trial efforts where the peak power and the power duration curve should closely follow each other.

The Cheat Sheet (watts)

The cheat sheet breaks the course into scenarios with power targets for each based on your goal targets and course/weather conditions. Many of our Pros and Members use the cheat sheet exclusively on race day. While racing you can follow the power targets based on the situation you are in at the time (i.e. riding into a head wind on a flat to rolling section target 200 watts or riding up a minor hill 1-2% target 215 watts).

What if I don't race with a power meter?

While Best Bike Split does rely on power to give an accurate model and pacing plan, it is possible to use estimated speed in lieu of power for race day execution via our Speed Based Course Cheat Sheet provided that you have done the following.

Have a good understanding of what your accurate FTP (Functional Threshold Power) is based on an indoor smart trainer or from using a power meter in training (Powertap wheel).

Rerun the model with the most up-to-date weather forecast update.

Be flexible to know when a certain speed may be pushing your HR or level of effort too high. In these cases you can shift your target speeds down a bit and keep the same speed deltas between conditions.

We provide general drag setting that will work for most athletes, but you may need to do some tweaking to get your drag numbers dialed in. The best way to do this is to adjust your 0 degree yaw angle drag in your bike settings. Try finding a high and low default setting (from your bike setup) then adjust your 0 yaw drag between these points by running the model and matching your average power (not normalized) and time compared to a known race result. See "How can I calibrate my drag using a past race and the Time Analysis Tool?" above for specifics on calibrating your drag. Note you may be a bit more aero for short races where you hold your position better than longer races like Ironman where you try to stay more comfortable. We suggest creating a bike profile for each. One for longer and one for shorter distance races.

With a free membership you are limited to a single race plan and do not have the option to delete. You can however update your single race plan as many time as you like, changing the course and other settings to see new race plans.

From a Premium subscription, an athlete can delete a race plan by going to the list of race plans located under "My Races" and clicking the race name then clicking the "Delete This Race" button. Similarly, a coach can delete race plans from a client account by first selecting the client to work with and then clicking the "Athlete Races" to view the list of that athlete's race plans and click the "Delete This Race" button under the selected race.

Please note that only Races will contain targets. Courses do not contain any targets and are only navigation.

Turn on the ELEMNT

Press the PAGE button until the Map page is displayed

Press the ROUTE button

Scroll to the BBS race and press SELECT

To review your Power/Speed Targets press the route button or press START from any page to begin

If you are at the beginning of the race the Initial Power and Speed Targets will appear in the data fields Target Power and Target Speed. If you are already on the course the ELEMNT will find where you are on the course and display the proper targets for your position. Some examples of our preferred ELEMNT screen layouts are shown below.

File Downloads & Device Settings

With an ever growing number of race plan files that are compatible with many Garmin devices as well as TrainerRoad, CompuTrainer, iMobileIntervals, perfPRO, PeriPedal and more it can be a little confusing on exactly which file type you need to download. Below is a brief description of each file type that we currently have available along with the devices and/or software that is compatible with that file type.

ERG Power

The ERG file contains detailed watt and time information created from your race plan which can be used with indoor training software to provide a great simulation of your race. This file type is compatible with most indoor training software including but not limited to TrainerRoad, CompuTrainer RacerMate One, PeriPedal, PerfPRO and iMobileIntervals.

MRC %FTP

Similar to the ERG file the MRC File contains detailed %FTP and time information created from your race plan which can be used with indoor training software to provide a great simulation of your race. This file type is compatible with most indoor training software including but not limited to TrainerRoad, CompuTrainer RacerMate One, PeriPedal, PerfPRO and iMobileIntervals.

Garmin Workout (Dist)

This Garmin Workout .fit file is a distance based workout file for Garmin Edge and specific Forerunner devices. When loaded* onto a Garmin device a distance based workout with watt targets corresponding to the Best Bike Split race plan is created. This workout can be used outdoors to simulate your race day efforts or indoors on a trainer in conjunction with a speed sensor and a power meter. Garmin limits workouts to a maximum of 50 steps so any plan longer than 50 segments will be intelligently combined into 50 workout steps. Garmin Workout files are compatible with Garmin Edge 500, 510, 800, 810, and 1000 cycling computers as well as Garmin Forerunner 910xt and 920xt watches.

*Garmin Workout Files must be manually added to Garmin devices in order to expand capacity to 50 steps. Please see "How do I load Garmin Power Course and TCX Power Route files on to my Garmin Device?" for details on getting the files on to your device.

Garmin Power Course

The Garmin Power Course .fit file leverages the built in courses functionality in Garmin Edge and specific Forerunner devices. This file is meant to be used while training or racing on a specific course. While riding a course on your Garmin device you will receive on-screen power target alerts as you pass latitude longitude points corresponding to your Best Bike Split race plan. Each Edge device does require some specific setup for best use of Garmin Power Courses and will require manual upload to the device. Garmin Edge 500, 510, 800, 810, and 1000 cycling computers and limited functionality is supported on the Garmin Forerunner 910xt and 920xt watches. Please see "How do I load Garmin Power Course and TCX Power Route files on to my Garmin Device?" for details best settings and on getting the files on to your specific device.

TCX Power Route

The TCX Power Route file has identical functionality to the Garmin Power Course but may not be supported by all devices. It will allow you to upload to other analysis software such as RideWithGPS to get different views of your route and power targets. Please see "How do I load Garmin Power Course and TCX Power Route files on to my Garmin Device?" for details on getting the files on to your device.

CompuTrainer Course

The CompuTrainer Course file allows you to train on the course profile for any race including the wind component you will experience. If it's a very windy race you will have to push harder on sections that would be into a headwind while experiencing the benefits of tail winds in other sections. This file is compatible with both the original 3D software as well as the RacerMate One software.

TrainerRoad (Beta)

TrainerRoad is a simple but incredible indoor training application compatible with most any indoor trainer. We have created a special TrainerRoad file that adds additional instructions and information on top of the typical ERG file functionality. This file type is in beta as we add additional features to it over the off season.

Zwift (Beta)

Zwift is a social indoor cycling video game and training platform. It allows cyclists to train and ride in a beautiful 3D environment along with other riders from anywhere on the planet. We have created a special Zwift workout file that allows athletes to load BBS Race plans as workouts into the Zwift workout library. This file type is in beta as we add additional features to it over the off season such as on screen instructions for road gradients and weather conditions.

To use the BBS ConnectIQ Race Sync App first download the app from Garmin ConnectIQ.

Once the app is on your device follow the steps below to Sync race plans to your Garmin. Please note that there are some issues with Garmin Watches that are being worked on in conjunction with Garmin Support Teams. You will always be able to load a course manually.

On first use the app will ask you to log-in via Garmin Connect Mobile*

Open Garmin Connect Mobile

Follow prompts to Log-in to Best Bike Split

Grant Garmin Permission within Best Bike Split

Your Garmin Device should now bring up a list of the last several updated race plans

Select your Race Plan to Download

Your Device will ask you what activity profile to use to start your race

If you do not want to start your race you may simply exit back out to the main screen using the back button or the home button on touchscreen devices. The course will be saved for future use and accessible under courses. The screenshots below should guide you through the process.

*Make sure your phone is paired with your Garmin Device.

To logout of your BBS account on the app press the back button on the course list and hold down the Menu (arrow) button or select the settings button on touch screen devices.

The BBS Power Targets data field displays an athlete's race plan power targets in real time as the athlete progresses through the course. Please note that this data field will only work in conjunction with Garmin Power Course (.FIT) file.

Add a BBS Power Course to your Garmin device:

Generate a rider/course/condition specific Race Plan in Best Bike Split

Download the Garmin Power Course for the Race Plan

Place the .FIT file in the new files directory on your Edge 520/820/1000

For best experience use the following options:

Turn your navigation settings to Direct Routing and Lock On Road to Off (found under Activity Profile / Navigation Settings)

Note: If you would like alerts when a Power Target is updated enable Course Points in this settings section. With Course Points disabled the Data Field will still update but there will not be an alert.

Riding a BBS Power Course:

Select Navigation

Choose your BBS Power Course file from saved courses

Start your activity as you would a normal course

When prompted to "Navigate to Beginning of Course?" it's best to dismiss this option (select No). As you approach the beginning of the course the head unit should find it.

If you see an N/A during a course it means your device firmware is not up to date or your device does not support the 2.2.x Connect IQ SDK. If you see No Target your course file does not contain course points.

Garmin Power Course and TCX Power Route files allow you to load your Best Bike Split race power plans onto your Garmin devices to use during your races. When running during a race, power alerts will pop up at the bottom of your screen to indicate the proper power target based on specific latitude and longitude points along the course. Currently these files are compatible with 500/10, 800/10, and 910xt/920xt devices. These courses must be manually loaded to your Garmin device as Garmin Connect does not yet support power alerts. Instructions for loading these files are shown below:

Garmin Edge 500/10, 800/10 & 1000 (Windows/Mac)

Plug in device via USB

Open Garmin device directory

Open NewFiles

Copy your Best Bike Split .fit file(s) or .tcx file(s) into the NewFiles directory (note some devices may require you to place the file in the Courses directory)

Unplug device

You should see your new Power Target Based course(s) on the device by going to the Courses section

Note: If the file does not load you may need to clear up memory by removing old courses. In some cases you can only load one course file at a time.

One of Best Bike Split's key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

One of Best Bike Split's key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

3 Second Power Average

10 Second Power Average

30 Second Power Average

CRS. Pt. Distance (not available on all devices)

Garmin Edge 500

The Edge 500 has limited options for course navigation compared to Garmin’s newer devices, but the Garmin Power Courses work pretty well without many customizations.

Starting Power Course

Load the file to the Edge 500 Device (see How to Load Garmin Power Courses above)

Turn on the device

Hold down Menu

Select Training ->Courses -> (Course Name) -> Do Course

Race!

Note: For triathletes you can start the course before heading out on the swim if you turn off the Auto Power Down option under Menu -> Settings -> System.

One of Best Bike Split's key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

One of Best Bike Split’s key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

3 Second Power Average

10 Second Power Average

30 Second Power Average

CRS. Pt. Distance (not available on all devices)

Garmin Edge 800

Power Course Settings

Use the following screen shots to help you setup your Edge 800 for optimal use with Garmin Power Courses.

General Settings

Select MENU

Select Wrench Icon

Select System

Select Map

Set Guide Text to Never Display

Select Routing

Use Settings Shown on Screen 7 Below

Specific Course Settings

Select Courses

Select Your Course

Select Wrench Icon

Course Settings

Map Display Settings

Now that your settings have been adjusted they will be saved to the specific course. When you are ready to race simply follow the instructions below.

Starting Power Course

Load the file to the Edge 800 Device (see How to Load Garmin Power Courses above)

One of Best Bike Split’s key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

3 Second Power Average

10 Second Power Average

30 Second Power Average

CRS. Pt. Distance (not available on all devices)

Garmin 510

Power Course Settings:

Use the following screen shots to help you setup your Edge 510 for optimal use with Garmin Power Courses.

General Settings

Select Wrench Icon

Select Activity Profiles

Select Train (or Race)

Select Training Pages

Set Map to None - Off

General Course Settings

Select Folder Icon

Select Courses

Select Settings (3 lines) Icon

Use Settings Shown on Screen 4 Below

Specific Course Settings

Select Your Course

Select Settings

Select Map Display

Use Settings Shown on Screen 4 Below

Now that your settings have been adjusted they will be saved to the specific course. When you are ready to race simply follow the instructions below.

Starting Power Course

Load the file to the Edge 510 Device (see How to Load Garmin Power Courses above)

Turn on the device

Select Folder Icon

Select Courses -> (Course Name) -> Ride

Ignore Navigation to Start of Course

Race!

Loading Power Based Navigation Course to Edge 510

One of Best Bike Split’s key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

3 Second Power Average

10 Second Power Average

30 Second Power Average

CRS. Pt. Distance (not available on all devices)

Garmin 810

Power Course Settings:

Use the following screen shots to help you setup your Edge 810 for optimal use with Garmin Power Courses.

General Settings

Select the Wrench Icon

Select Activity Profile

Select Train

Select Training Pages

Turn Map to None - Off

Select Navigation

Select Map

Use Settings Shown on Screen 8 Below

Select Routing

Use Settings Shown on Screen 10 Below

Course Settings

Select Folder Icon

Select Courses

Select Settings Icon (3 lines)

Use Settings Shown on Screen 4 Below

Specific Course Settings

Select Your Course

Select Settings

Select Map Display

Use Settings Shown on Screen 4 Below

Garmin Power Course Edge 810 Settings

One of Best Bike Split's key features is the Garmin Power Course. This file when paired with a Garmin Edge cycling computer allows you to receive location based power instructions while racing. Each Garmin device is slightly different so we have created the guide below to help you get the optimal settings for your device. Remember Garmin Power Courses require you to be riding on the actual course because power targets are based on latitude and longitude points.

Before starting, make sure you always have the latest firmware installed on your device.

Data Fields for All Edge Devices

We recommend the following data fields when using Garmin Power Courses on your device. These settings will help guide your actions as power target alerts are prompted.

3 Second Power Average

10 Second Power Average

30 Second Power Average

CRS. Pt. Distance (not available on all devices)

Garmin 1000

Power Course Settings:

Use the following screen shots to help you setup your Edge 1000 for optimal use with Garmin Power Courses.

General Settings

Select the Wrench Icon

Select Activity Profile

Select Race

Select Data Screens

Select Map

Turn Map to Off and Data Fields to None

Return to Race Options and Select Navigation

Select Map

Use Settings Shown on Screen 9 Below

Return to Navigation settings and Select Routing

Use Settings Shown on Screen 11 Below

Course Settings

Select Courses

Select Settings Icon (3 lines)

Use Settings Shown on Screen 3 Below

Specific Course Settings

TrainerRoad is a great indoor training tool that allows athletes to follow well thought out indoor power workouts. These workouts based on power and duration are typically called ERG (Watts vs. Time) or MRC (%FTP vs. Time) workouts. By combining your Best Bike Split race plans with indoor training provided by TrainerRoad you can start to pre train and get an accurate simulation of how it will feel on race day. We have also created a beta TrainerRoad specific file type that will be enhanced over time. Simple steps for getting race based power workouts transferred from Best Bike Split to the TrainerRoad application.

First you must have a Best Bike Split and a TrainerRoad account.

Create a Athlete Profile in Best Bike Split to get baseline information such as FTP.

Upload a course or courses you wish to model into Best Bike Split in .GPX or .FIT format or choose one or more courses from our growing database.

Create a race plan based on Goal IF, Time or TSS.

From the Race Details page download the ERG, MRC, or TrainerRoad file type.

Open the TrainerRoad Workout Creator.

Drag the file from your downloads folder onto the left side of the Workout Creator.

Name your workout in the Workout Creator and select Publish which is on the lower right.

Open the TrainerRoad app and check out your BBS workout under the custom workouts.

START THE RIDE!

Importing Best Bike Split Plans to TrainerRoad

Zwift is a social indoor cycling video game and training platform. It allows cyclists to train and ride in a beautiful 3D environment along with other riders from anywhere on the planet. We have created a special Zwift workout file that allows athletes to load BBS Race plans as workouts into the Zwift workout library. This file type is in beta as we add additional features to it over the off season such as on screen instructions for road gradients and weather conditions.

First you must have a Best Bike Split and a Zwift account.

Create a Athlete Profile in Best Bike Split to get baseline information such as FTP.

Upload a course or courses you wish to model into Best Bike Split in .GPX or .FIT format or choose one or more courses from our growing database.

Race Analytics Tool

The Race Analytics Tool lets athletes and coaches upload ride files and analyze their performance. From this data we can help refine the model settings of the athlete for future race planing. We have combined several of our former features into this new section to provide a more comprehensive view into race day performance. Race Analytics will currently estimate aerodynamic drag factors and allow athletes to update their settings, highlight Variability Index tendencies over time, provide zoomable standard metric calculations and give insight into performance factors by gradient breakdown.

The tool uses a similar setup to BBS race plans so we do require some knowledge of the course to help refine the drag estimates. To start analyzing ride data follow these steps:

Using the drop down menus select the bike used, road conditions and the terrain

Make sure the bike profile selected is set up to the same specs (especially fully loaded weight) as that of your actual ride

Optionally select whether to use corrected elevation

Defaults to non-corrected elevation data

Choose to use historical weather from DarkSky or input your own known conditions

Typically DarkSky has very good historical weather but in some places like Australia the wind data has not been great so the option is there for manual input

When using manual pressure make sure it's adjusted to sea level equivalent standard

Select a ride file that has at a minimum latitude, longitude, speed and power

If you are using a file from a Velodrome you can select Velodrome for course terrain and latitude and longitude data will not be required.

Click the Analyze Ride button

Review the data

Update your bike's CdA values

If the data looks accurate you can apply the Estimated CdA values to your specific BBS bike setup by clicking the "Update Current" button under Estimated Data Comparison for one or both of the racing CdA and Climbing/Relaxed CdA values.

CdA (coefficient of drag x area) is the major component of aero drag that is typically calculated in the wind tunnel or with velodrome testing. As a rider goes faster the drag force related to pushing the bike through the air grows exponentially, so the lower your CdA the easier it is to cut through the wind. At some point there is a trade off between getting more aerodynamic and producing power. Typical CdA number ranges that should be expected are:

This chart plots out the general ride data from your uploaded file along with calculated CdA points through out the course. As you hover over the chart you will see the marker on the map move to the section of the course that corresponds to that data as well as an indicator of the wind relative to the rider for that location on the course. Click and drag across the Ride Data chart to zoom in on a section and all of the summary metrics will update to reflect that specific section of the course. To remove a data set simply click that data's label shown under the graph.

When you zoom in on a section of the Ride Data chart all of the summary metrics will update to reflect that specific section of the course. This allows athletes and coaches to do a deeper analysis of the race on areas such as major climbs, windy sections and/or out and back sections. To zoom simply click and drag across the Ride Data chart. When you reset zoom, change chart type or switch tabs the Race Overview data will revert back to the total overview.

The Weather chart shows a forecasted or historical weather map for the course based on both location and time. The chart shows historical weather data from points along the course corresponding to the time that the athlete crossed into those zones. This data is pulled in from the closest weather station to the zone that the athlete was in at that time.

Temperature

Temperature is shown in either degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit depending on your unit settings.

Humidity

Relative humidity is the ratio of the current absolute humidity to the highest possible absolute humidity (which depends on the current air temperature). A reading of 100 percent relative humidity means that the air is totally saturated with water vapor.

Pressure

Barometric pressure (also known as atmospheric pressure) is the force exerted by the atmosphere at a given point. It is known as the "weight of the air". Measurement of barometric pressure is in bars, with normal pressure at sea level being 1.013 bars.

Wind Speed & Direction

Wind speed is shown in either miles per hour or kilometers per hour depending on your unit settings. The wind direction is shown in degrees and represents the direction that the wind is coming from, with true north at 0° and progressing clockwise. The graphic arrows point in the direction that the wind is going and are positioned relative to the course map, with north being at the top of the map.

Once the algorithm calculates aerodynamic drag across the course we attempt to cluster this data into buckets representing Race, Climbing/Relaxed and Anomalies positions. These are used to derive the optional updates for your bike settings in BBS. The CdA Clusters chart displays these groupings in an interactive 3-D chart by CdA, Speed and Gradient. The chart can be rotated allowing you to gain insight into speeds and gradients where an athlete tends to change positions.

White papers and marketing material often show how much more aero different equipment is at various yaw angles. When analyzing the ride we can give an accurate picture of the true wind angles experienced and give better insight into the type of wind conditions athletes experience during a race or ride. This chart shows the yaw angle breakdown of the file and the average for both the drive (+) and non drive (-) sides.

This chart shows the percentage of race time you spent in each road gradient range as well as the athlete's average speed and power for that range. This gradient data can help show areas of strength and weaknesses specific to the athletes descending skill and climbing power limitations, which you can use when setting max descent speeds or power limits within the race plan advanced settings options.

The Peak Power Chart shows the mean max average power values compared to the equivalent mean max normalized power values across different times for the race file. When compared to an athletes previously recorded peak power or power duration curve this data can be used to help set power limitations as well as minimum VI values in the advanced settings section or to find areas where an athlete may need work to achieve an optimal pacing strategy for a future race. This becomes especially powerful for lower powered athletes or in hilly terrain where athletes will struggle to maintain lower VI values.

The Estimated CdA is very dependent on good data. There are a lot of areas where data can get corrupted from uncalibrated (or in some cases left only) power meters, bad barometric or GPS elevation data, poor location data, and/or inaccurate weather information. We do our best to help alleviate this behind the scenes, but with all of the variables bad data is bound to sneak through sometime. Ideally with the perfect setup and known conditions the CdA data will appear as a straight line across, but these conditions rarely if ever actually exist outside the trainer or velodrome. Conveniently we use some techniques in our algorithm to minimize the impacts from real world data flukes as much as possible.

It is often fairly obvious to determine whether the input data is good visually from the resulting CdA data. A couple of examples are shown below and more information can be found in our case study here (link to case study).

Weight Too Low

On a hilly course in sections where an athlete would normally stay in an aero position if the CdA numbers are much higher for the slightly uphill sections compared to the slightly downhill sections it is an indication that the weight in the algorithm may be too low compared to actual. Below is a case where there is a disparity on the same sections of uphill to downhill. Because the athlete is above 20 MPH for both of these they should be staying as aerodynamic as possible.

Bad Wind Data

This is an example of an out and back where historical wind data was off by 180 degrees so what looked to the analysis like a head wind out and tail wind back was actually a strong tailwind out and head wind back. Thus the calculated CdA numbers on the way out where too low whereas the numbers on the way back were too high.

The physics behind our analysis algorithm for estimating CdA is sound and we have shown against velodrome and wind tunnel data that the deltas between an athlete's position can be picked up nicely. As we get more data we will continue to refine our methodology especially around our clustering algorithm which does tend to error a bit on higher side for drag settings. This is somewhat purposely so athletes and coaches don’t have overly optimistic expectations that can not be met in reality as we have seen with some wind tunnel and velodrome data in the past.

Currently we only accept .FIT, .TCX, .WKO and .PWX files for analysis. These files at a minimum need to have speed, power and lat/long data for outdoor rides or speed and power data from velodrome rides. The system will give a warning if there is insufficient data to process your file.

The main reason we started down this development path is to separate the estimated CdA from the pacing portion of the system. The Time Analysis Tool will give a good drag estimate based on previous performances if the ride/race was ridden with the given pacing strategy. For test rides, equipment tests or races where a different pacing strategy was implemented a new tool needed to be developed. In the future this will also allow us to break down race analysis for time gained/lost corresponding to riding strategy versus settings.

Data is often messy. When analyzing road rides the data will typically be very scattered in the cluster chart; however, on the Ride Data chart you should be able to pick out areas where you were sitting in the pack or taking a pull and see what kind of drag data corresponds to the different situations.

The Download Workout File allows you to download a representative .ERG or Zwift file based on your uploaded race file for use with compatible indoor training software. For more information on using the files with training software please see the specific FAQs on TrainerRoad or Zwift.

Coach Memberships

With a coach membership you are able to setup and/or maintain unlimited athlete profiles. Under the "My Athletes" tab you can add athlete profiles yourself or invite athletes to setup their own Best Bike Split memberships and then have them grant you access to their account.

Other than having the option to work with multiple athlete profiles, a coach membership essentially functions just like the premium athlete memberships. Once you select the athlete profile that you wish to work with, you have the ability to add/modify that athlete's profile, add/modify that athlete's bike(s), add/upload courses for that athlete and create/modify race plans.

The coach membership does have an additional link on the race details page called "Athlete Link" which is a link that you can send your client/athlete giving them access to their race detail page even without being a Best Bike Split member.

Need more help?

Remember you can rollover these question mark icons for additional information on a topic.

YouTube Videos

We also have a YouTube Channel with several tutorials and instructional videos.

Submit A Request

Didn't find what you were looking for? Don't hesitate to submit a request to our Customer Success Team and we'll help you out.

What is Best Bike Split?

Our math and physics engine takes your power data, course info, and race day conditions to predict your race performance and create the perfect power plan so you can hit your best bike split.